“If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” (Ps 95:8)
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Lent is a sacred time of repentance, renewal, and deep listening to God’s voice. Psalm 95:8 is a call to openness, reminding us that God speaks to us daily through Scripture, the Church, prayer, and the circumstances of our lives. However, we often resist His call, allowing sin, pride, distractions, and worldly attachments to harden our hearts.
During Lent, the Church invites us to soften our hearts through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. We are called to let go of anything that keeps us from fully surrendering to God’s will. Just as the Israelites struggled in the desert by doubting God’s providence, we, too, may resist His guidance. Yet, Christ continually knocks on the door of our hearts, calling us to conversion and deeper faith.
Let us take this season as an opportunity to listen attentively, repent sincerely, and allow God’s grace to transform us. If we hear His voice today-whether in Scripture, the Eucharist, or the silent whispers of our conscience-may we respond with humility and trust, rather than resistance.
The Meaning of LENT in Catholic Doctrine
Each letter in LENT can symbolize key themes of this sacred season:
L – Love: Lent is a time to grow in love for God and neighbor through acts of charity, selflessness, and prayer.
E – Examination: We are called to examine our lives, repent from sin, and seek God’s mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
N – New Life: By dying to sin, we prepare to share in Christ’s resurrection, embracing a renewed life of grace and holiness.
T – Transformation: Lent is a journey of spiritual renewal, where we allow God’s grace to transform our hearts and draw us closer to Him.
May this Lenten season be a time of true conversion, leading us to Easter with hearts purified and ready to receive the fullness of Christ’s joy! Prayerful communion beloved brothers and sisters in Christ!
Sr. Judith Segla, NDE (Sister Communicator)
